Can You Recycle Old Paint?

Can You Recycle Old Paint?

Last reviewed by Marcus Williams on 01 April 2026

Yes, latex paint can be recycled at PaintCare drop-off sites in participating US states and at council recycling centres in the UK. Oil-based paint is hazardous waste.

Paint recycling depends on whether it's water-based (latex) or oil-based. Latex paint dries out over time but isn't inherently toxic. Oil-based paints contain solvents that make them hazardous materials, requiring special disposal methods.

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Why Paint Isn't Easy to Recycle

Oil-based paint is difficult to recycle due to its chemical composition and toxicity. It contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like solvents and heavy metals, making it a threat to the environment if not disposed of correctly. Latex paints are less problematic but still require careful management because once dried, they become solid waste.

How to Recycle Paint Properly

For latex paint in the US, check out PaintCare.org for drop-off locations near you. In the UK, visit your local council's website or call them directly for kerbside collection options. They might also have special events where you can bring old paint. For oil-based paints, take them to a household hazardous waste facility.

PaintCare is one of several programmes that help manage latex paint recycling in 17 US states as of 2023. These programs often partner with local hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, which collect and send the recycled paint back for reuse or safe disposal.

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Alternatives to Throwing Paint Away

Before tossing your old paint, consider donating it if it's still usable. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept donations of paint in good condition. If you don't need a lot of paint yourself, share with friends or neighbours who might use it for small projects around their homes.

FAQ

Can I Mix Old Paints Together?

Don't mix different types of paints together as this can create unusable globs and potentially hazardous substances. Mixing latex with oil-based paint is particularly dangerous due to the differing chemical properties.

Is There a Cost to Recycling Paint?

Recycling costs vary by location. In some places, like participating US states through PaintCare, recycling is free. Others might charge fees depending on the volume or type of paint you're bringing in.

What About Aerosol Cans with Paint Inside?

Empty aerosol cans can often go into your kerbside recycling bin if they're completely empty and no longer pressurized. If there's still paint inside, it needs to be taken to a hazardous waste collection site for safe disposal.

Sources

• Royal Society of Chemistry
• BankMyCell depreciation tracker
• UNEP